
Associate Therapist | New York
Eric James
MHC-I
As an African American therapist, I specialize in working with Black men, couples of color, and families navigating the emotional impact of anxiety, trauma, identity concerns, relationship challenges, and life's stressors. I understand that personal, cultural, and systemic experiences can significantly shape mental health and the way we move through the world.
Much of my work focuses on helping Black men navigate the intersecting pressures of racialized stress, masculinity norms, generational trauma, and the burden of feeling the need to remain perpetually strong. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe being vulnerable, exploring their experiences honestly, and reconnecting with themselves in meaningful ways.
My practice is rooted in culturally responsive, holistic, and trauma-informed care. I aim to create a thoughtful, collaborative, and reflective environment where clients can explore meaning, develop insight, strengthen relationships, and move toward personal empowerment at their own pace.
Who I Support
I support:
Black men navigating racialized stress, masculinity expectations, identity concerns, and emotional well-being
Couples of color seeking to strengthen communication and deepen emotional connection
Families working through relational patterns, conflict, and life transitions
Individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm
Clients exploring identity, meaning, and personal growth
Clients seeking culturally responsive, mindfulness-oriented, and values-based care
My Approach
My approach is integrative and tailored to each client's goals. I draw from evidence-based and holistic practices, including:
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MB-CBT)
Existential therapy focused on meaning, values, and choice
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and relationships
Bowenian and Family Systems approaches to understanding relational patterns
Trauma-informed care that prioritizes safety and emotional regulation
Culturally responsive and social-justice-informed therapy
I emphasize collaborative goal-setting and work with clients to define therapy in ways that align with their personal, relational, and cultural values.
Education & Professional Status
Master of Arts in Mental Health and Wellness Counseling – New York University
Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience – Brown University
I practice under clinical supervision in accordance with New York State regulations. Ongoing supervision supports ethical, high-quality care and helps ensure you receive thoughtful, client-centered treatment while your privacy remains protected.
Outside the Therapy Room
Outside of sessions, I enjoy weightlifting, running, cooking, and reading philosophy and history. I value time with my family and believe that reflection, physical movement, and curiosity play an important role in overall well-being.
Accepted Insurances
Aetna – New York
Meritain Health – New York
Cigna – New York
Magnacare – New York
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (formerly Empire) – New York
Oscar (Optum) – New York, New Jersey
United Healthcare (Optum) – New York
Oxford (Optum) – New York
UMR (Optum) – New York
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York
Highmark BlueShield of Northeastern New York
Out-of-Network Benefits
